Gastrophrenic ligament

The gastrophrenic ligament is a peritoneal fold that connects the fundus of the stomach to the underside of the diaphragm, specifically its posterior aspect. It is considered a part of the greater omentum, although it is sometimes classified separately due to its distinct attachments and limited extent.

Location and Extent

• Superior attachment: The ligament originates on the inferior surface of the diaphragm, typically at the level of the left crus, just to the left of the esophageal hiatus.

• Inferior attachment: It extends downward to attach to the posterior wall of the gastric fundus, near the region of the cardia and greater curvature.

This ligament lies posterior to the stomach and helps stabilize the organ against the diaphragm during respiration.

Structure and Contents

• Composed of two layers of visceral peritoneum, like most peritoneal ligaments.

• May contain small vessels and lymphatics, although it lacks major neurovascular structures.

• It is often traversed by lymphatic channels that communicate between the gastric and diaphragmatic lymph nodes.

Relations

• Anteriorly: It is related to the fundus of the stomach.

• Posteriorly: Lies adjacent to the diaphragm and may partly overlay the left suprarenal gland and upper part of the left kidney.

• Medially: Continuous with the gastrosplenic ligament near the hilum of the spleen.

• Laterally: May blend with the spleen’s peritoneal attachments (e.g., splenorenal ligament), depending on anatomical variation.